The OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education is a prestigious qualification designed for individuals passionate about shaping young minds. This Ofqual-regulated program provides learners with a strong foundation in early childhood education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to support the development and well-being of children. Whether you are aspiring to enter the field or looking to enhance your expertise, this qualification offers a flexible and comprehensive learning experience.
Early childhood education plays a critical role in a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. Well-trained professionals in this field help build strong learning foundations, ensuring children are prepared for future academic success and personal growth.
The OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education provides a strong foundation in child development, learning theories, and best practices for early years education. It equips learners with essential skills to create nurturing and stimulating environments for young children. By completing this course, students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue careers in early childhood education or further their studies in the field.
OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
The OTHM Level 4 Diploma qualifications demonstrate practical knowledge, skills, and competencies, academically recognized as equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and the first year of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree program.
Level 4 Mandatory units:
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Academic Writing and Research Skills | 20 | 100 |
| 2 | Nurturing Growth and Development in Early Childhood | 20 | 100 |
| 3 | Fostering Collaborative and Inclusive Relationships in Early Childhood Setting | 20 | 100 |
| 4 | Learning and Development Through Play | 20 | 100 |
| 5 | Unlocking Words: Exploring Early Language and Communication | 20 | 100 |
| 6 | Early Personal, Social and Emotional Development | 20 | 100 |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on heir studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes of OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Understand the concept and purpose of academic research and writing.
- Understand how to conduct academic research.
- Be able to demonstrate critical thinking skills.
- Understand how to construct a reliable and valid academic argument.
Nurturing Growth and Development in Early Childhood
- Understand traditional and contemporary views and theories of growth and development
- Understand the role of reflexes and the role of the senses
- Understand locomotion
- Understand impacts of growth and development initiatives to support health and well being
- Understand traditional and contemporary views and theories of growth and development
Fostering Collaborative and Inclusive Relationships in Early Childhood Settings
- Understand the importance of promoting diversity, equality and inclusion
- Understand how to develop inclusive relationships through equality, diversity and anti-discriminatory practice.
- Understand barriers to parents being involved in their children’s early learning
Learning and Development Through Play
- Understand how play and learning activities promote children’s learning and development
- Understand curriculum approaches to outdoor play
- Understand how to support purposeful play
Unlocking Words: Exploring Early Language and Communication
- Understand the role of communication and language in children’s development
- Understand the development of communication and language
- Understand the critical periods of language development
Early Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Understand different aspects of personal development
- Understand emotional development
- Understand social development
- Understand factors that might impact Personal Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
The Course Benefits of the OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education are as :
Comprehensive Knowledge – Provides a strong foundation in child development, learning theories, and early years education practices.
Career Advancement – Enhances employability in early childhood education settings, such as nurseries, preschools, and daycare centers.
Recognized Qualification – Equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and the first year of a UK Bachelor’s degree, allowing further academic progression.
Practical Skills – Develops hands-on skills to create engaging learning environments and support children’s development effectively.
Pathway to Higher Education – Offers a stepping stone for further studies in early childhood education and related fields.
Global Opportunities – Recognized internationally, opening doors to job prospects in various educational institutions worldwide.
Flexible Learning – Available through various study modes, making it accessible to working professionals and students alike.
This course is designed for individuals passionate about working with young children and shaping their early learning experiences. The ideal learner includes:
- Aspiring Early Childhood Educators – Those looking to begin a career in nurseries, preschools, or daycare centers.
- Current Educators and Childcare Professionals – Individuals already working in early years settings who want to enhance their knowledge and qualifications.
- Career Changers – Professionals from other fields who wish to transition into early childhood education.
- Future Educational Leaders – Learners aiming to progress to higher studies in education or take on leadership roles in early years settings.
- International Students – Those seeking a globally recognized qualification to work in childcare and education worldwide.
This diploma is ideal for anyone committed to fostering young children’s development, well-being, and lifelong learning.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to OTHM External Quality Assurance Versifier (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, OTHM will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
